Can Cats Eat Pomegranate?

⚠️ In Moderation

✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit

⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just ate something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.

A few arils occasionally are low risk, but the rind and membranes can cause real stomach trouble.

Why it’s a sometimes-food

The juicy arils are not toxic, though sugary, and their seeds are small enough to pass. The trouble is the white pith and rind, which are loaded with tannins that irritate a cat’s gut and cause vomiting when chewed.

How to serve it safely

Offer two or three arils at most, completely free of rind, pith and membranes.

Warning signs to watch for

Vomiting, drooling and diarrhea, especially if rind or membranes were chewed.

When to call the vet

Call your vet if vomiting persists or the cat seems uncomfortable.

Common questions

Is pomegranate juice a healthy treat?

No. It is concentrated sugar with tannins on top — one of the least suitable forms of an already pointless treat.

More foods for cats

Salmon✅ SafeYes, when fully cooked and unseasoned. Salmon is a nutritious fish most cats enjoy.Tuna⚠️ In ModerationOccasional small amounts only — tuna should be a treat, never a meal.Cow’s Milk🚫 Not RecommendedBetter to skip it. Most adult cats are lactose intolerant and milk gives them stomach upset.Garlic☠️ ToxicNo. Garlic is poisonous to cats — even more potent per gram than onion.Cooked Eggs✅ SafeYes, fully cooked and plain. Eggs are a protein-rich treat cats usually enjoy.Cheese⚠️ In ModerationSmall bites are usually fine, but many cats cannot digest dairy well.

This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away.